Malaysia begins repatriation of Myanmar nationals under voluntary programme
First group of 1,476 people departed via naval vessels amid rights group concerns over safeguards
Quick Look
Malaysia has begun returning 5,000 detained Myanmar nationals under a voluntary repatriation programme, with the first group of 1,476 departing on Myanmar naval vessels from Perak state.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Malaysia holds thousands of Myanmar nationals in immigration facilities under an agreement criticized by human rights groups.
The first group of 1,476 is part of an agreement to return 5,000 people held in Malaysian immigration facilities under a programme Kuala Lumpur describes as voluntary, though human rights groups say it lacks adequate safeguards.
Buses accompanied by security vehicles arrived at a stadium near the Lumut naval base in Perak state on Tuesday morning before moving towards the port, where three Myanmar naval vessels were docked, Reuters reported.
This Week in Asia was told that only selected media could cover the operation when it sought access.
Open Questions
- What are the specific safeguards in the repatriation programme?
- When will the remaining 3,524 individuals be returned?
